The Miami-Dade Public Library System proudly inaugurated the new children’s room at the West Dade Regional Library on Monday, August 31st at 11:00 a.m. Honorable Commissioner Javier Souto stopped by to address a group of children from a local daycare on the importance of the library in the community. The new library director, Gia Arbogast and Commissioner Souto cut the ceremonial ribbon to the newly renovated children’s room. The West Dade Regional Library children’s room ribbon-cutting ceremony was followed by a lively children’s magic act and a jazz trio performance. Children enjoyed the newly renovated children’s room at the West Dade Library.
The Library rearranged the shelving throughout the entire room to create a more-open floor plan with better visibility, natural light and a great seating area. Additionally, an early literacy center was implemented to promote the interaction of parents and their children to help develop early reading skills. In addition to new carpeting and paint, lounge furniture and movable furnishings were installed so that patrons and library staff can use the space in different ways.
MDPLS launches new children’s area at West Dade- page 2.
New artwork with bold and vivid colors from the library’s collection was introduced. A technology table with 6 I-pads loaded with educational software for young children to encourage early literacy and a Wii station designed for group play was added. The intent of the renovation was to make the room have a better flow, a more welcoming feel and at the same time increase activity throughout the floor itself. The early literacy area uses a “pond” theme equipped with an alligator bookshelf and a pond-themed carpet with a bridge. Pond-related animals also appear on the artwork on the tops of the nesting tables.
About the Miami‑Dade Public Library System
The Miami-Dade Public Library System (MDPLS), a recipient of the National Medal for Museum and Library Service, serves as a community center and learning place where the Miami-Dade community meets to exchange ideas, learn, share, and create. . Through its 49 locations, bookmobiles, special services, website (www.mdpls.org) and MDPLS iLibrary app, the library proudly serves more than 7 million annual visitors.
